TGC Podcast

Don Carson, co-founder of TGC and a pivotal figure in evangelical scholarship, delivers a compelling keynote on the essence of the gospel. He emphasizes its comprehensive, Christ-centered nature, linking it to both theological foundations and personal transformation. Carson critiques the modern church's diluted interpretations of the gospel, asserting the vital role of the death and resurrection of Jesus. He also explores the historical evidence supporting Christianity and encourages believers to embrace the transformative power of the gospel in their lives.

We’re living through a teen mental illness epidemic, as adolescents self-report record levels of sadness, loneliness, and anxiety. And teens growing up in Christian homes aren’t immune to this epidemic.In this breakout session from TGCW24, Betsy Childs Howard interviews Sandi Taylor, a mental health counselor who specializes in working with adolescents and their parents. They discuss the causes of anxiety, the role social media plays in teen mental health, and the difference the gospel can make in the lives of teens—and their parents.

All Christians are called to bless, but do we know what that call means and how it informs the way we relate to our family and neighbors? In this breakout session at TGCW24, Tina Boesch considers the relational, future-oriented, and outward-focused nature of blessing, tracing it from Genesis to Numbers 6 and Jesus‘s teachings. From blessings in the home and church to extending them to our communities—and even our enemies—Boesch encourages listeners with practical steps to embrace and share God’s blessing in everyday life.

Amy Gannett joins Joanna Kimbrel to discuss the doctrine of union with Christ and its profound impact on the Christian life. They explore how salvation is not just a legal status but a deep, spiritual connection to Christ through the Holy Spirit. Amy explains how this union transforms prayer, evangelism, identity, and the believer’s daily struggle against sin. The conversation also highlights how union with Christ provides strength in suffering and assurance of God’s presence. 

In this breakout session at TGCW24, Sarah Zylstra hosts a roundtable discussion with Sarah Kuswadi, Gail Curry, Carol de Rossi, and Shamsia Borhani Rafee, highlighting the spiritual landscapes of Australia, Ireland, Latin America, and Afghanistan. Each panelist shares the challenges present in her context while reflecting on ministry highlights and the encouraging ways she sees God at work in the world.They discuss the following:Australia's spiritual contextGospel movement in AustraliaThe spiritual context of IrelandEncouragements in IrelandChallenges and opportunities in IrelandLatin America's spiritual contextThe revival of the gospel in Latin AmericaPractical ministry strategies in Latin AmericaThe spiritual context of AfghanistanMinistry to Afghan refugees in the U.S.

In this breakout session from TGCW24, Jen Oshman explores the deep-rooted human desire for security, whether through material wealth, productivity, or influence. She unpacks Jesus’s parable of the rich fool in Luke 12, emphasizing the dangers of self-centered accumulation and misplaced trust in earthly possessions. She encourages listeners to seek true security in God by living generously, trusting Christ, and prioritizing eternal riches over temporary gain.She teaches the following:The pursuit of security and materialismAn introduction to Luke 12The rich fool's self-centered decisionThe Lord's rebuke and true foolishnessLiving for eternity and practical applications

Join Soojin Park, a voice on widowhood in the church, Anna Meade Harris, who shares the joys and challenges of being a single mother and widow, and Lydia Brownback, sharing insights from her lifelong singleness. They discuss how the church can better support singles, addressing misconceptions and emotions linked to singleness. In a heartfelt chat, they emphasize the importance of community, redefine singleness as a valuable calling, and highlight that everyone has a meaningful purpose, regardless of marital status.

Michael Kruger, a Professor of Biblical Studies and author of 'Surviving Religion 101', shares invaluable insights on preparing teens for life in a secular world. He discusses the alarming trend of young Christians leaving their faith around college age and introduces three key principles for parents: wise exposure, purposeful dialogue, and embracing doubts. Kruger also emphasizes the importance of community support for teens, relating it to the camaraderie seen in 'Saving Private Ryan'—demonstrating how togetherness can help navigate life's challenges.

Sharon James, a speaker at the TGC 2024 Women's Conference and a dedicated advocate from the Christian Institute, passionately discusses Christianity's profound positive impact on society. She explores the inspiring story of Sarah Martin and how early Christians championed human rights and dignity. Delving into justice, philanthropy, and education, she highlights how faith has empowered women and transformed communities. By contrasting contemporary critiques with historical truths, James reveals the enduring legacy of Christian influence in promoting freedom and social reform.

In this episode, Kendra Dahl, Rebecca McLaughlin, Jen Oshman, and Wendy Alsup consider the Bible’s teaching about women through a Jesus-centered understanding of Scripture. They observe Christianity's historical and cultural influences and encourage women to stay engaged with the Scriptures, seek truth in community, and persevere in the good work God has called them to.They discuss the following:Personal experience and why it's essential to study the ScripturesThe misuse and misapplication of ScriptureThe importance of a Jesus-centered hermeneuticWhy we need historical and cultural perspectivesEncouragement for women who have a negative view of the BibleRecommended resources:Is the Bible Good for Women? by Wendy AlsupConfronting Christianity by Rebecca McLaughlinJesus Through the Eyes of Women by Rebecca McLaughlinCultural Counterfeits by Jen OshmanIt’s Good to Be a Girl by Jen Oshman